When shopping for a new car, it’s easy to be swayed by attractive pricing, sleek designs, and flashy features. However, some vehicles that seem like a great deal initially can turn into costly burdens over time. Here’s a rundown of new cars that might look appealing on the lot but can become problematic once you own them.

1. Ford EcoSport

At first glance, the Ford EcoSport offers a compact design and a competitive price point, making it attractive for urban dwellers. However, its performance and fuel efficiency leave much to be desired, making it a less-than-ideal choice for long-term ownership.

Moreover, the interior feels dated, and the technology features can be clunky. Once you start racking up maintenance costs and realize the limited cargo space, the EcoSport may not seem like such a steal after all.

2. Chevrolet Spark

The Chevrolet Spark is often touted as one of the most affordable new cars on the market. Its low starting price is tempting, especially for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Spark’s underpowered engine can lead to frustrating driving experiences, particularly on highways.

Additionally, the interior quality is subpar, and many drivers report discomfort during longer trips. When you factor in potential repairs and the need for trade-ins sooner than expected, the Spark’s initial affordability can quickly diminish.

3. Nissan Versa

The Nissan Versa stands out with its low price and generous trunk space, which can lure first-time car buyers. While it checks the boxes for basic transportation, its performance and handling are often criticized for being lackluster.

With a minimalistic interior and outdated technology, the Versa might not provide the comfort or convenience expected over time. Owners may find themselves spending more on upgrades or repairs than they initially anticipated, making it a less appealing long-term investment.

4. Kia Rio

Kia’s Rio offers a stylish exterior and a surprisingly spacious interior for a subcompact car. It’s easy to overlook its shortcomings due to its attractive price. However, the Rio’s engine struggles with power, especially when fully loaded, leading to a lack of responsiveness on the road.

Moreover, while the warranty is appealing, many owners report issues with build quality over time. What starts as a great deal can quickly turn into a headache when faced with unexpected repairs and declining resale value.

5. Hyundai Accent

The Hyundai Accent presents a solid first impression with a reasonable price tag and decent fuel economy. However, its performance is often overshadowed by competitors that offer better handling and more robust engines.

Over time, drivers have noted that the Accent’s interior materials can feel cheap and wear out faster than expected. As maintenance costs accumulate and the car’s resale value drops, what seemed like a bargain can turn out to be a costly mistake.

6. Mitsubishi Mirage

The Mitsubishi Mirage entices buyers with its incredibly low price and impressive fuel economy. However, the trade-off is glaring: the Mirage’s engine is notoriously underpowered, making it feel sluggish in various driving conditions.

While it may save you money at the dealership, the Mirage’s lack of features and subpar safety ratings can lead to regrets down the line. For those looking for reliability and performance, this could be a deal that turns sour fast.

7. Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 boasts a quirky design and a fun driving experience that many find appealing. Its compact size is also a plus for city driving. However, potential owners should be wary of the high maintenance costs and reliability issues that often plague this model.

Parts and repairs can add up quickly, and many drivers report frequent trips to the shop. What might seem like a charming and affordable option can quickly become a financial drain, diminishing its initial allure.

When shopping for a new car, it’s essential to look beyond the sticker price. Consider long-term ownership costs, reliability, and performance to avoid surprises down the road. Do your homework and choose wisely; your wallet will thank you later.